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Beth Yount
Missouri University of Science & Technology
Advisors: Drs. Jonathan Kimball & Scott Grasman
Abstract
The present technology of photovoltaics is limited by the fact that shading, debris, or damage to one cell can cause an adverse effect on the power output of the entire array. Traditional series-parallel PV configurations also require panels to have identical rating and characteristics making it difficult to modify the capabilities of an existing array. With switched capacitor (SC) boost converters connected to parallel PV panels, these negative effects may be alleviated. The SC converters operate at high voltage gain, increasing system voltage and keeping system current low. Currents do not have to be identical, since each panel will be at the same voltage. This will allow the system to operate closer to maximum power point (MPP) where they are most efficient. Parallel PV panels can be added to such an array to supplement an undersized installation or taken away when damaged modules become a hindrance. A sensor array is being developed to test this theory. The data collected from the sensor array will be analyzed to compare a simulated conventional series-parallel array to this new parallel topology. Sensor circuit data compiled will be used to define scenarios for a GUI software designed to aid in the maximum power point tracking and other necessary stipulations a PV installer normally uses for site selection. All of this combined will push PV technology toward more user-friendly and adaptable installations.
Beth Yount is from Hannibal, Missouri and has an Associates degree in Electrical Engineering Technology from Linn State Technical College (formerly Linn Tech). Beth worked in facilities and emergency power maintenance in various locations around the United States for ten years before coming to Missouri S&T to complete her Bachelors degree in Electrical Engineering with an emphasis in power. She is currently working on a Masters in Engineering Management with an emphasis in project management at Missouri S&T. She has also worked as a co-op electrical engineer at the NASA-Dryden facility in both the Research Instrumentation (RI) and the Facilities departments. She would like to continue her relationship with NASA in research as well as in a future career as an engineer and project manager. She intends to seek employment at a NASA facility full-time upon completion of her academic achievements.
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